NL2009791C2 - Flexible hydrocarbon pipeline storage installation. - Google Patents

Flexible hydrocarbon pipeline storage installation. Download PDF

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Publication number
NL2009791C2
NL2009791C2 NL2009791A NL2009791A NL2009791C2 NL 2009791 C2 NL2009791 C2 NL 2009791C2 NL 2009791 A NL2009791 A NL 2009791A NL 2009791 A NL2009791 A NL 2009791A NL 2009791 C2 NL2009791 C2 NL 2009791C2
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NL
Netherlands
Prior art keywords
pipeline
storage device
tensioner
flexible
loading
Prior art date
Application number
NL2009791A
Other languages
Dutch (nl)
Inventor
Joop Roodenburg
Terence Willem August Vehmeijer
Hubertus Lourens Leendert Tieleman
Original Assignee
Itrec Bv
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Itrec Bv filed Critical Itrec Bv
Priority to NL2009791A priority Critical patent/NL2009791C2/en
Priority to PCT/NL2013/050793 priority patent/WO2014073959A1/en
Priority to EP13801870.0A priority patent/EP2917625B1/en
Priority to US14/437,460 priority patent/US9617809B2/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of NL2009791C2 publication Critical patent/NL2009791C2/en

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Classifications

    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
    • E21B—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
    • E21B19/00—Handling rods, casings, tubes or the like outside the borehole, e.g. in the derrick; Apparatus for feeding the rods or cables
    • E21B19/22—Handling reeled pipe or rod units, e.g. flexible drilling pipes
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
    • B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING 
    • B63B25/00—Load-accommodating arrangements, e.g. stowing, trimming; Vessels characterised thereby
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L1/00—Laying or reclaiming pipes; Repairing or joining pipes on or under water
    • F16L1/12—Laying or reclaiming pipes on or under water
    • F16L1/20—Accessories therefor, e.g. floats, weights
    • F16L1/202—Accessories therefor, e.g. floats, weights fixed on or to vessels
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L1/00—Laying or reclaiming pipes; Repairing or joining pipes on or under water
    • F16L1/12—Laying or reclaiming pipes on or under water
    • F16L1/20—Accessories therefor, e.g. floats, weights
    • F16L1/202—Accessories therefor, e.g. floats, weights fixed on or to vessels
    • F16L1/203—Accessories therefor, e.g. floats, weights fixed on or to vessels the pipes being wound spirally prior to laying
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T29/00—Metal working
    • Y10T29/49—Method of mechanical manufacture
    • Y10T29/49815—Disassembling
    • Y10T29/49817—Disassembling with other than ancillary treating or assembling

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Geology (AREA)
  • Mining & Mineral Resources (AREA)
  • Ocean & Marine Engineering (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Environmental & Geological Engineering (AREA)
  • Fluid Mechanics (AREA)
  • General Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Geochemistry & Mineralogy (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Filling Or Discharging Of Gas Storage Vessels (AREA)

Abstract

The present invention relates to a vessel comprising a flexible hydrocarbon pipeline storage installation. The flexible hydrocarbon pipeline storage installation comprises an annular storage device, the storage device comprising an opening, and a tensioner, adapted to exert a pulling force on a pipeline, comprising two or moretensioner tracks defining therebetween a pipeline passage, extending between a loading end and an opposed storage end of the tensioner. The flexible hydrocarbon pipeline storage installation further comprises a pipeline loading guide, provided near the tensioner, for guiding the pipeline during loading the pipeline into the annular storage device. According to the invention, the tensioner is arranged to have an essentially vertical pipeline passage, wherein the storage end of the tensioner is situated above the opening of the annular storage device, and wherein the pipeline loading guide is provided near the loading end of the tensioner.

Description

P31351NLOO/IWO
Title: Flexible hydrocarbon pipeline storage installation
The present invention relates to a vessel comprising a flexible hydrocarbon pipeline storage installation according to the preamble of claim 1, and a method of loading a flexible pipeline 5 according to claim 6.
Such a flexible hydrocarbon pipeline storage installation on a vessel is generally known and commercially available. These devices comprise a so-called mushroom, comprising a semicircular pipeline loading guide onto which a tensioning device having a horizontal pipeline 10 passage is mounted. Such a mushroom-type storage device is used to load flexible pipelines from the shore to an annular storage device. This loading may also be referred to as spooling. The mushroom pulls the flexible pipeline from the shore and maintains sufficient back tension for correct spooling of the pipeline in the annular storage device. To unload the pipeline from the storage device, a separate unloading mushroom may be provided, 15 comprising a semi-circular pipeline unloading guide onto which a tensioning device having a horizontal pipeline passage is mounted. A disadvantage of this configuration is the large amount of deck space required. Hence, the footprint of the flexible hydrocarbon pipeline storage installation required in addition to the storage device is large. Alternatively, it could be considered to alter the position of the entire mushroom from a loading position to an 20 unloading position. In view of the heavy weight of such a mushroom, this is far less advantageous.
The present invention aims to provide an improved configuration for a vessel comprising a flexible hydrocarbon pipeline storage installation. According to the present invention, the 25 tensioner is arranged to have an essentially vertical pipeline passage, wherein the storage end of the tensioner is situated above the opening of the annular storage device, and wherein the pipeline loading guide is provided near the loading end of the tensioner.
This configuration has the advantage that a single tensioner of the flexible hydrocarbon 30 pipeline storage installation according to the invention is not only suitable for loading the pipeline, but also for unloading the pipeline from the annular storage device. During loading the pipeline the tensioner pulls the flexible pipeline and maintains sufficient back tension for correct spooling. During unloading, the tensioner helps to guide the pipeline from the annular storage device.
-2-
The annular storage device of the invention may be of a so-called basket-type or a carousel-type. A basket-type storage device comprises an annular space, provided with a bottom and side walls, and an upper end which is at least partially open. The storage device may be provided with pipeline guide means, for loading the pipeline in concentric rings. Drive means 5 allow the basket to rotate. To pull the pipeline from a basket, a tensioner is required to pull. When a basket-type storage is provided on deck of the vessel, it is conceivable that the opening permitting the loading of the pipeline thereinto is formed by the entire upper end of a basket-type storage device, or part of the at least partially open upper end. It is also conceivable that the basket type storage has a closed upper end, which is provided with a 10 hatch to permit the loading of the pipeline thereto. This is also a possible option when the basket-type storage is provided below deck: a hatch may be provided in the deck above the open upper end of the basket to define the opening to permit the loading of the pipeline thereto.
15 A carousel-type storage device comprises an upper and lower flange, between which the pipeline is spooled. The carousel may be provided with a winch to pull the pipeline. Between the flanges, at least part of the circumferential side of the carousel-type storage device is open, so as to permit the loading of the pipeline. A carousel-type storage thus has the opening at the side. According to the invention, the tensioner is situated above this opening 20 end, such that the pipeline follows a curved downwards path into the storage device. It is conceivable that in the curved downward path the pipeline is guided via a pipeline guide, such as a chute, from the tensioner into the carousel-type storage device, and optionally also vice versa. In general, it is noted that the tensioner is preferable arranged adjacent the opening of the carousel-type storage device to allow the loading and unloading of the 25 pipeline.
The storage device may be positioned in a hull of the vessel. When the storage device is provided below deck, the upper end of the storage device is preferably accessible via a hatch, above which the tensioner is provided.
30
Possibly, the storage device extends substantially over the entire width of the vessel, wherein the vertical axis is essentially provided at the longitudinal axis of the vessel. It is conceivable that a single vessel is provided with multiple pipeline storage devices, e.g. provided adjacent each other wherein each vertical axis is essentially provided at the 35 longitudinal axis of the vessel. In a preferred embodiment, the storage end of the tensioner is provided above the openings of multiple storage devices.
-3-
According to the invention, the storage end of the tensioner is situated above the opening of the annular storage device. In particular, the storage end of the tensioner is situated near the storage device, more particularly higher than the storage device, possibly in a vertical direction essentially straight above the opening of the storage device. In the case a hatch is 5 provided to close the opening of the annular storage device, the tensioner is thus preferably provided straight above this hatch. Thus, during loading the pipeline moves downwards from the tensioner through the opening, and during unloading the pipeline moves upwards out of the storage device, via the opening, to and through the tensioner.
10 When the annular storage device is provided below deck, it is both conceivable that the tensioner is provided on deck, or provided partially below deck, as long as the storage end of the tensioner is situated above the opening of the annular storage device. When the annular storage device is provided on deck, it is conceivable that the tensioner is provided on an elevated frame on deck, or even on top of the annular storage device, as long as the 15 storage end of the tensioner is situated above the opening of the annular storage device.
In an embodiment, it is conceivable that the vessel is also provided with a flexible pipelay installation. The tensioner with the essential vertical pipeline passage enables the unloading of a pipeline to the flexible pipelay installation. Configurations are conceivable, wherein no 20 additional pipeline guiding means are provided in the pipeline path between the loading end of the tensioner and the flexible pipelay installation.
In a possible embodiment, the flexible hydrocarbon pipeline storage installation further comprises a pipeline unloading guide, provided between the annular storage device and the 25 flexible pipelay installation, and provided near the loading end of the tensioner, for guiding the pipeline during unloading the pipeline from the annular storage device. The pulling operation of the tensioner between the storage device and the pipeline unloading guide prevents sagging of the pipeline between the flexible pipelay installation and the storage device.
30
In a possible configuration, the pipeline unloading guide extends essentially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vessel. Preferably, also the pipeline loading guide extends essentially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vessel, opposite the pipeline unloading device.
35 It is preferred to adapt the shape and configuration of the pipeline guides for loading and unloading to its respective purposes. Preferably, the unloading guide is distinct from the pipeline loading guide. However, it is also conceivable that the pipeline loading guide is also -4- used as a pipeline unloading guide. Possibly, the position of the pipeline loading guide can be changed.
Additional pipeline guiding means may be provided on the vessel, e.g. a guide in the 5 pipeline path before the pipeline loading guide, upon loading the pipeline. Such a guide may assist in the prevention of cracking.
The vessel according to the present invention is preferably a monohull vessel. It is conceivable that the vessel is a dedicated pipeline storage vessel, cooperating with a 10 pipelaying vessel comprising a flexible pipelay installation. However, preferably the vessel according to the present invention comprises both a flexible hydrocarbon pipeline storage installation and a flexible pipelay installation.
The flexible hydrocarbon pipeline storage installation according to the present invention 15 comprises an opening, so as to permit loading of the pipeline thereinto, and possibly also unloading of the pipeline therefrom. The storage device is rotatable about a vertical axis by a drive, e.g. an electromotor.
Generally, a pipeline is loaded from the shore, over the rear end of the vessel, into the 20 storage device. Alternatively, it is also conceivable that the pipeline is loaded over a sideboard or over the front end of the vessel. The pipeline may be loaded from the shore, but alternatively the pipeline may also be transferred from one pipeline storage vessel to another vessel, according to the present invention.
25 A tensioner is provided for pulling the pipeline to and/ or from the storage device. It is conceivable that additional pipeline pulling means are provided, such as the drive of the annular storage device, in particular a storage device of the carousel type, although in general the pulling force that can be exerted by such a drive is not sufficient.
30 The tensioner can be any more or less conventional type, wherein the tensioner comprises at least two tensioner tracks for pulling the pipeline, which can be set to a determined pipe diameter, e.g. using hydraulic cylinders. The tensioner is preferably capable of pulling flexible pipelines having a diameter between 40 and 800 mm, more preferably between 50 and 650 mm. The tensioner preferably comprises 2-4 tensioner tracks, defining there 35 between a pipeline passage having a length of 3-5 meters, preferably 3,5 meter. The tensioner has a loading end where the pipeline enters the tensioner upon loading, and an opposed storage end of the tensioner, where the pipeline exits the tensioner and moves -5- towards the storage device upon loading the pipeline. When unloading the pipeline, the pipeline enters the tensioner at the storage end and exits the tensioner at the opposed loading end. The pulling speed of the tensioner may vary between 5 and 50 m/min, more preferably between 10 and 30 m/min. The tensioners tracks are preferably driven by 5 electromotors.
The tensioner may be of any configuration comprising two or multiple tracks. It is conceivable that the flexible hydrocarbon pipeline storage installation comprise more than one tensioner, e.g. multiple tensioners having a vertical pipeline passage above each other, 10 or comprising both tensioners having a vertical, and additionally tensioners having a horizontal pipeline passage.
In a preferred embodiment, the tensioner comprises a frame, mounted to the vessel, and movable subframes, equipped with the tensioner tracks, which can preferably be set to a 15 determined pipe diameter, e.g. using hydraulic cylinders.
The flexible hydrocarbon pipeline storage installation according to the present invention comprises a pipeline loading guide, provided near the tensioner, for guiding the pipeline during loading the pipeline into the annular storage device. In addition, the device comprises 20 a pipeline unloading guide, provided between the annular storage device and a flexible pipelay installation, for guiding the pipeline during unloading the pipeline from the annular storage device.
The pipeline guides are preferably embodied as curved roller tracks, of a semi-circular 25 shape or quarter-circular shape. The semi-circular shape is in particular advantageous when the pipeline guide is to be moved away. In particular when flexible pipeline portions having an enlarged diameter are to be handled, the area above the opening of the storage device is to be cleared to allow this pipeline portion to enter the storage device, and hence the tensioner and the above the tensioner situated pipeline guide or pipeline guides are to be 30 moved away.
When loading of the pipeline takes place from the rear end of the vessel, the loading pipeline guide extends essentially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vessel. As is preferred, the flexible pipelay installation is installed on the same vessel. In a preferred 35 configuration, the one or more pipeline storage devices is/ are provided at the rear end of the vessel, and the pipelay installation at the front end of the vessel. As such, the pipeline -6- unloading guide also extends essentially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vessel, essentially opposite the pipeline loading guide.
Alternatively, it is conceivable that the vessel according to the present invention is provided 5 adjacent another vessel comprising the flexible pipelay installation, and that the pipeline unloading guide thus extends in the direction of this other vessel.
The vessel is preferably also suitable of handling flexible pipeline portions having an enlarged diameter, e.g. portions having a pipeline connector fitted to it. Such pipeline 10 connectors may be 10-15 metres long, and have a weight of 10-20 tons. In an embodiment, the vessel is furthermore provided with a crane, which is at least suitable for handling such pipeline portions having an enlarged diameter. In this embodiment, at least one of the tensioner tracks is provided moveable between a closed operative position for pulling the pipeline, and an open retracted position, allowing the pipeline portion having an enlarged 15 diameter to pass the tensioner. Preferably, the tensioner comprises two tracks, which are both movable between the closed operative and open retracted position.
For loading purposes, the crane should be able to connect the pipeline portion having an enlarged diameter prior to being lowered into the storage device. Possibly, the crane should 20 reach to the shore where the pipeline portion having an enlarged diameter is offered.
Alternatively, it is conceivable that the pipeline portion having an enlarged diameter can be guided over the stern (rear side) of the vessel by conventional means, such that the crane only needs to reach towards the end of the pipeline loading guide. Possibly, the pipeline portion having an enlarged diameter can also be guided over this pipeline loading guide, 25 such that the crane can connect the end portion at the end of the pipeline loading guide, just above the tensioner.
For unloading purposes, the crane should be able to bring the pipeline portion having an enlarged diameter to the flexible pipelay installation. It is conceivable that another crane is 30 provided for handling the pipeline portion having an enlarged diameter, e.g. provided on top of the flexible pipelay installation, of taking over the pipeline portion having an enlarged diameter from the crane connecting the pipeline portion having an enlarged diameter in the storage device.
35 In an embodiment, one or more tensioner tracks are movably mounted in a stationary frame, which is attached to the deck, e.g. by pinned connections.
-7- ln an embodiment, the at least one tensioner track is rotatable about a vertical rotation axis, e.g. 60-120°, preferably 80-100°, most preferred about 90°. Preferably, two tensioner tracks are provided, which are both allowed to rotate 90° sideways, and thus providing a clear area for the pipeline portions having an enlarged diameter.
5
In an embodiment, the pipeline loading guide is mounted to a first movable tensioner track, and the pipeline unloading guide is mounted to a second movable tensioner track, such that the pipeline loading guide and the pipeline unloading guide are also movable between an operative position above the tensioner and a retracted position, allowing the passage of 10 pipeline portions having an enlarged diameter. As such, the pipeline guides move together with the tracks, and no additional construction is required to move the pipeline guides apart.
The invention also relates to a method of loading a flexible pipeline having at least one pipeline portion having an enlarged diameter into the annular storage device of a vessel 15 according to claim 5, and a method of unloading a flexible pipeline having at least one pipeline portion having an enlarged diameter from the annular storage device of a vessel according to claim 5.
The invention will be further described in relation to the drawings, in which: 20 Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a vessel according to the invention, in which the tensioner is in a retracted position;
Figs. 2a and 2b show distinct perspective views of a detail of the vessel of fig. 1, in which a pipeline is being loaded onto the vessel;
Fig. 3 shows the ensemble of tensioner, pipeline loading guide and pipeline unloading guide 25 in the retracted position in a top view;
Figs. 4a and 4b show the ensemble of tensioner, pipeline loading guide and pipeline unloading guide in the operative position in a side view and a top view, respectively.
In fig. 1 a perspective view of a vessel 1 according to the present invention is shown. The 30 vessel 1 is a monohull vessel, comprising a hull 2 and a deck 3. In the hull 2, an annular storage device is provided, which is not visible due to its location in the hull 2. The annular storage device is rotatable about a vertical axis by a drive (not shown). The annular storage device has an opening, so as to permit the loading of the pipeline. In the shown embodiment, an opening 4 is provided in the deck 3 of the vessel, through which the 35 pipeline may be loaded and unloaded. In case a basket-type storage device is applied, having an open upper end, the opening 4 in the deck corresponds to the opening of the storage device permitting loading and unloading. In case a carousel-type storage device is -8- applied, the opening 4 in the deck is situated above the opening of the carousel-type storage device, allowing the loading and unloading of the pipeline via the opening and via the opening.
5 Additionally, on deck 3 a flexible pipelay installation 30 is provided. The flexible pipelay installation 30 in this embodiment comprises an essentially vertical tower 31, provided with an aligner wheel 32 and two tensioners 33a, 33b. In a not shown embodiment it is also conceivable that the flexible pipelay installation is provided with an aligner chute. The orientation of the tower 31 can be adjusted by adjusters 34. In the deck 3 of the vessel a 10 moonpool (not visible) is provided below the tensioners, such that the pipeline may enter the sea in a firing line extending through the tensioners 33a, 33b and the moonpool.
The vessel 1 and hydrocarbon pipeline storage installation as shown in the drawings 1-5 is suitable for both loading a pipeline, e.g. from the shore, via the stern of the vessel, and via 15 opening 4 in the deck into the annular storage device in the hull of the vessel, and for unloading the pipeline, from annular storage device, to the flexible pipelay installation 30. In particular, the vessel 1 and hydrocarbon pipeline storage installation as shown in the drawings 1-5 is suitable for handling flexible pipeline portions having an enlarged diameter, e.g. portions having a pipeline connector fitted to it.
20
Such a pipeline connector 25 is hardly visible in fig. 1, adjacent the flexible pipelay installation 30, but shown in detail in figs. 2a and 2b.
Furthermore, on deck 3 of the vessel 1, a crane 20 is provided, which is at least suitable for 25 handling such flexible pipeline portions having an enlarged diameter.
According to the present invention, a tensioner 50 is provided, which is adapted to exert a pulling force on a pipeline. The tensioner 50 is shown in detail in the side view of fig. 4a. In the shown embodiment, the tensioner 50 comprises two tensioner tracks 50a, 50b, defining 30 therebetween a pipeline passage 51. The pulling force on the pipeline is adjustable via cylinders 52. In the configuration of fig. 4, the tensioner 50 is provided in a closed operative position in which it is adapted to exert a pulling force on the pipeline. The pipeline passage 51 extends between a loading end 51a and an opposed storage end 51b. The storage end 51b of the tensioner is, according to the invention, situated above the opening of the annular 35 storage device. In the shown embodiment, the storage end 51b is provided above the opening 4 of the deck.
-9-
According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the tensioner tracks 50a and 50b are provided moveable between the closed operative position of figs. 4a and 4b, and an open retracted position as visible in figs. 1 and 3, allowing the pipeline portion having an enlarged diameter to pass the tensioner. In the embodiment shown in figs. 2a and 2b, only one of the 5 tensioner tracks is moved to the open retracted position, allowing the pipeline portion having an enlarged diameter to pass the tensioner.
In the shown embodiment, the tensioner tracks 50a are supported by a frame 55. The tensioner tracks 50a, 50b are rotatable about a vertical rotation axis 57a, 57b, respectively, 10 by hydraulic cylinders 57a, 57b, respectively. Alternatively, the tensioner tracks could also be moveable via translation means, or yet alternatively by the aid of a crane.
Furthermore, according to the present invention, the flexible hydrocarbon pipeline storage installation comprises a pipeline loading guide 10, provided near the loading end 51a of the 15 tensioner 50, for guiding the pipeline during loading the pipeline into the annular storage device.
In addition, a pipeline unloading guide 40 is provided, provided between the opening of the annular storage device and the flexible pipelay installation 30, and provided near the loading 20 end 51a of the tensioner, for guiding the pipeline during unloading the pipeline from the annular storage device. In the embodiment shown in fig. 4, i.e. in the closed operative position of the tensioner, the pipeline unloading guide 40 extends essentially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vessel, and also the pipeline loading guide 10 extends essentially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vessel, opposite the pipeline unloading device 40.
25
According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the pipeline loading guide 10 is mounted to a first movable tensioner track 50b, and the pipeline unloading guide 40 is mounted to a second movable tensioner track 50a, such that the pipeline loading guide 10 and the pipeline unloading guide 40 are also movable between an operative position above 30 the tensioner 50, visible in figs. 4a and 4b, and a retracted position, visible in figs. 1 and 3, allowing the passage of flexible pipeline portions having an enlarged diameter. As noted above, in the embodiment shown in figs. 2a and 2b, only one of the tensioner tracks 50a with the pipeline unloading guide 40 is moved to the open retracted position, allowing the pipeline portion having an enlarged diameter to pass the tensioner, while the other tensioner 35 track 5b and the pipeline loading guide 10 remain in position.
- 10-
On deck 3 of the vessel 1, loading guide devices 5a, 5b, 5c are visible, which are available to assist in guiding the pipeline upon loading a pipeline via the guide device 5a provided at the stern of the vessel, and via guide devices 5b and guide device 5c to a pipeline loading guide 10 according to the present invention. The additional loading guide devices 5a, 5b and 5 5c are commonly applied devices.
The loading of a pipeline 24 provided with a connector 25 is visible in figs. 2a and 2b. The pipeline 24 is guided by the guide devices 5a, 5b and 5c, while the connector 25 is being held by the crane 20. In the shown embodiment, an additional guiding wire 28 is provided, 10 which is connected to the pipeline 24 below the connector 25. The guiding wire 28 assists in guiding the pipeline over the pipeline loading guide 10, while the connector 25 is being held by the crane 20. The connector 25 is lifted past the pipeline loading guide 10 by the crane 20. Connector 25 is too large to be handled by the tensioner 50. Hence, the pipeline passage 51 defined by the tensioner tracks 50a and 50b is enlarged by moving the 15 tensioner track 50a with the pipeline unloading guide 40 to the retracted position.
Alternatively, it is also conceivable that both tensioner tracks are moved to the retracted position, similar to the situation shown in figs. 1 and 3. An even larger passage may be created this way. In the situation wherein only one tensioner track is retracted, visible in figs. 2a and in particular in fig. 2b, it is evident that the thus created enlarged passage is large 20 enough to allow the passage of the connector end 25. Once the connector end has passed the tensioner 50, the tensioner track 50a may be allowed to move back to the closed operative position to allow the loading of the pipeline 24.
At the trailing end of the pipeline 24, an additional connector end may be provided, which 25 will also be handled in a similar way by the crane 20, and by opening the tensioner track 50a.
Upon unloading a pipeline with a pipeline portion having an enlarged diameter, it is conceivable that only tensioner track 50b with the pipeline loading guide 10 is moved to the 30 retracted position, while the pipeline portion having the enlarged diameter is being handled by the crane. Alternatively, both tensioner tracks are moved to the retracted position.
Upon unloading, the pipeline is guided to the flexible pipelay installation 30. In particular, a leading end portion of the pipeline, e.g. a portion having an enlarged diameter, is brought, 35 e.g. by the crane to the top of the flexible pipelay installation 30, here the aligner wheel 32. From there, the pipeline is allowed to pass the tensioners 33a and 33b and guided into the - 11 - sea. It is noted that, if applicable, these tensioners 33a and 33b should also be configures such that they allow the passage of the portion having an enlarged diameter.
In the situation in fig. 1, the pipeline has been unloaded to the flexible pipelay installation 30, 5 and only a connector 25 provided at the end of the pipeline 24 has yet to pass the aligner wheel 32. The assistance of an additional crane is also required to achieve this.

Claims (10)

1. Schip omvattende een opslaginstallatie voor een flexibele koolwaterstof pijpleidingen, welke opslaginstallatie voor flexibele koolwaterstof pijpleidingen omvat: 5. een ringvormige opslaginrichting, bij voorkeur gepositioneerd in een romp of op een dek van het schip, die roteerbaar is om een verticale as door een aandrijving, welke opslaginrichting een opening omvat, om zo het laden van een pijpleiding toe te staan, - een pijpspanner (tensioner), geschikt om een trekkracht uit te oefenen op een pijpleiding, omvattende twee of meer pijpspanner rupsbanden (tracks) die daartussen 10 een pijpleiding doorgang definiëren, die zich uitstrekt tussen een laadeinde en een tegenoverliggend opslageinde van de tensioner, - een laadgeleiding voor de pijpleiding, aangebracht nabij de pijpspanner, voor het geleiding van de pijleiding tijdens het laden van de pijpleiding in de ringvormige opslaginrichting, 15 met het kenmerk, dat de pijpspanner zodanig is opgesteld dat deze een in hoofdzaak verticale pijpleiding doorgang heeft, waarbij het opslageinde van de pijpspanner is gesitueerd boven het opening van de ringvormige opslaginrichting, zodat de pijpleiding een gekromd neerwaarts pad volgt naar de opslaginrichting, en waarbij de laadgeleiding voor de pijpleiding is voorzien nabij het 20 laadeinde van de pijpspanner.A ship comprising a storage installation for a flexible hydrocarbon pipelines, which storage installation for a flexible hydrocarbon pipelines comprises: 5. an annular storage device, preferably positioned in a hull or on a deck of the ship, which is rotatable about a vertical axis by a drive , which storage device comprises an opening so as to allow loading of a pipeline, - a pipe tensioner (tensioner), suitable for exerting a pulling force on a pipeline, comprising two or more pipe tensioners tracks (tracks) that a pipeline between them define a passage that extends between a loading end and an opposite storage end of the tensioner, - a loading guide for the pipeline, arranged near the pipe tensioner, for guiding the pipeline during loading of the pipeline in the annular storage device, characterized in that the pipe tensioner is arranged such that it is a substantially vertical the pipeline has passage, wherein the storage end of the pipe tensioner is situated above the opening of the annular storage device, so that the pipeline follows a curved downward path to the storage device, and wherein the loading guide for the pipeline is provided near the loading end of the pipe tensioner. 2. Schip volgens conclusie 1, waarbij het schip is voorzien van een flexibele pijpleginstallatie, en waarbij bij voorkeur de opslaginstallatie voor een flexibele koolwaterstof pijpleidingen verder een ontlaadgeleiding voor de pijpleiding omvat, voorzien tussen het 25 opening van de ringvormige opslaginrichting en de flexibele pijpleginstallatie, en voorzien nabij het laadeinde van de pijpspanner, voor het geleiden van de pijpleiding tijdens het ontladen van de pijpleiding uit de ringvormige opslaginrichting.2. Ship according to claim 1, wherein the ship is provided with a flexible pipeline installation, and wherein preferably the storage installation for a flexible hydrocarbon pipelines further comprises a discharge guide for the pipeline provided between the opening of the annular storage device and the flexible pipeline installation, and provided near the loading end of the pipe tensioner, for guiding the pipeline during the discharge of the pipeline from the annular storage device. 3. Schip volgens conclusie 1, verder omvattende een kraan, die ten minste geschikt is 30 om gedeelte van een flexibele pijpleiding met een vergrote diameter te hanteren, bijvoorbeeld gedeeltes voorzien van een pijpleiding verbindingsstuk, en waarbij ten minste één van de pijpspanner rupsbanden beweegbaar is aangebracht tussen een gesloten operationele positie waarin deze geschikt is om een trekkracht uit te oefenen op de pijpleiding, en een open teruggetrokken positie, die het mogelijk maakt dat het gedeelte van 35 de flexibele pijpleiding met een vergrote diameter voorbij de pijpspanner passeert. - 13-3. Ship as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a crane, which is at least suitable for handling part of a flexible pipeline with an enlarged diameter, for instance parts provided with a pipeline connecting piece, and wherein at least one of the pipe tensioner caterpillars is movable arranged between a closed operational position in which it is suitable for exerting a tensile force on the pipeline, and an open retracted position, which allows the portion of the flexible pipeline with an enlarged diameter to pass beyond the pipe tensioner. - 13- 4. Schip volgens conclusie 3, waarbij de ten minste ene pijpspanner rupsband roteerbaar is om een verticale rotatie as, bijvoorbeeld 60-120°, bij voorkeur 80-100°, met de meeste voorkeur 90°.Ship according to claim 3, wherein the at least one pipe tensioner is rotatable about a vertical axis of rotation, for example 60-120 °, preferably 80-100 °, most preferably 90 °. 5. Schip volgens conclusie 3 of 4, waarbij de laadgeleiding voor de pijpleiding is gemonteerd op een eerste beweegbare pijpspanner rupsband, en waarbij de ontlaadgeleiding voor de pijpleiding is gemonteerd op een tweede beweegbare pijpspanner rupsband, zodanig dat de laadgeleiding voor de pijpleiding en de ontlaadgeleiding voor de pijpleiding eveneens beweegbaar zijn tussen een operationele positie boven de pijpspanner 10 en een teruggetrokken positie, die de doorgang van een gedeelte van een flexibele pijpleiding met een vergrote diameter mogelijk maakt.Ship according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the loading guide for the pipeline is mounted on a first movable pipe tensioner track, and wherein the discharge guide for the pipeline is mounted on a second movable pipe tensioner track, such that the loading guidance for the pipeline and the discharge guidance for the pipeline to also be movable between an operational position above the pipe tensioner 10 and a retracted position, which allows the passage of a portion of a flexible pipeline with an enlarged diameter. 6. Werkwijze voor het laden en ontladen van een flexibele pijpleiding in de ringvormige opslaginrichting van een schip volgens conclusie 1, omvattende de volgende stappen: 15. het verschaffen van een flexibele pijpleiding nabij het schip, waarbij de flexibele pijpleiding een voorste einde omvat; - het geleiden van het voorste einde van de flexibele pijpleiding via de laadgeleiding voor de pijpleiding naar het laadeinde van de pijpspanner; - het bedienen van de pijpspanner zodanig dat de pijpleiding door de pijpspanner wordt 20 getrokken, door het opening van de ringvormige opslaginrichting in die ringvormige opslaginrichting; heb verschaffen van het voorste einde van de flexibele pijpleiding vanaf de ringvormige opslaginrichting naar het opslageinde van de pijpspanner; - het bedienen van de pijpspanner zodanig dat de pijpleiding door de pijpspanner via 25 het opening van de ringvormige opslaginrichting uit de ringvormige opslaginrichting wordt getrokken.A method for loading and unloading a flexible pipeline in the annular storage device of a ship according to claim 1, comprising the following steps: 15. providing a flexible pipeline near the ship, the flexible pipeline comprising a front end; - guiding the front end of the flexible pipeline via the loading guide for the pipeline to the loading end of the pipe tensioner; - operating the pipe tensioner such that the pipeline is pulled through the pipe tensioner through the opening of the annular storage device in said annular storage device; provide the front end of the flexible pipeline from the annular storage device to the storage end of the pipe tensioner; - operating the pipe tensioner such that the pipeline is pulled through the pipe tensioner via the opening of the annular storage device from the annular storage device. 7. Werkwijze volgens conclusies 2 en 6, gevolgd door het geleiden van het voorste einde van de flexibele pijpleiding en de flexibele pijpleiding via de ontlaadgeleiding van de 30 pijpleiding naar de flexibele pijpleginstallatie.7. Method according to claims 2 and 6, followed by guiding the front end of the flexible pipeline and the flexible pipeline via the discharge guide from the pipeline to the flexible pipeline installation. 8. Werkwijze voor het laden van een flexibele pijpleiding met ten minste een gedeelte van een flexibele pijpleiding met een vergrote diameter in een ringvormige opslaginrichting van een schip volgens conclusie 5, omvattende de volgende stappen: 35. het bewegen van ten minste één van de pijpspanner rupsbanden en de hiermee verbonden geleiding voor een pijpleiding naar de teruggetrokken positie; - 14- het verbinden van een gedeelte van een flexibele pijpleiding met een vergrote diameter met de kraan; - het laten zakken van het gedeelte van een flexibele pijpleiding met een vergrote diameter door de kraan, door de teruggetrokken positie van de pijpspanner, in de 5 ringvormige opslaginrichting; - het sluiten van de ten minste ene pijpspanner rupsband naar de operationele positie; het losmaken van de het gedeelte van een flexibele pijpleiding met een vergrote diameter van de kraan; - het bedienen van de pijpspanner zodanig dat de pijpleiding in de ringvormige 10 opslaginrichting wordt getrokken.A method for loading a flexible pipeline with at least a portion of a flexible pipeline with an enlarged diameter into an annular storage device of a ship according to claim 5, comprising the following steps: 35. moving at least one of the pipe tensioner caterpillars and the guide connected thereto for a pipeline to the retracted position; - connecting a portion of a flexible pipeline with an enlarged diameter to the tap; - lowering the portion of a flexible pipeline with an enlarged diameter through the tap, through the retracted position of the pipe tensioner, into the annular storage device; - closing the at least one pipe tensioner track to the operational position; disconnecting the portion of a flexible pipeline with an enlarged diameter from the tap; - operating the pipe tensioner such that the pipeline is pulled into the annular storage device. 9. Werkwijze volgens conclusie 8, waarbij de flexibele pijpleiding twee gedeeltes van een flexibele pijpleiding met een vergrote diameter heeft, welke werkwijze verder de stappen omvat: 15. het bedienen van de pijpspanner zodanig dat de pijpleiding in de ringvormige opslaginrichting wordt getrokken, totdat het tweede gedeelte van een flexibele pijpleiding met een vergrote diameter nabij de pijpspanner is; - het verbinden van het tweede gedeelte van een flexibele pijpleiding met een vergrote diameter met de kraan; 20. het bewegen van ten minste één van de pijpspanner rupsbanden en de hiermee verbonden geleiding voor een pijpleiding naar de teruggetrokken positie; het laten zakken van het tweede gedeelte van een flexibele pijpleiding met een vergrote diameter door de kraan, door de pijpspanner heen, in de ringvormige opslaginrichting; 25. het losmaken van het tweede gedeelte van een flexibele pijpleiding met een vergrote diameter van de kraan.The method of claim 8, wherein the flexible pipeline has two portions of a flexible pipeline with an enlarged diameter, the method further comprising the steps of: 15. operating the pipe tensioner such that the pipeline is pulled into the annular storage device, until the second portion of a flexible pipeline with an enlarged diameter is near the pipe tensioner; - connecting the second part of a flexible pipeline with an enlarged diameter to the tap; 20. moving at least one of the pipe tensioner tracks and the guide connected thereto for a pipeline to the retracted position; lowering the second portion of a flexible pipeline with an enlarged diameter through the tap, through the pipe tensioner, into the annular storage device; 25. disconnecting the second portion of a flexible pipeline with an enlarged diameter from the tap. 10. Werkwijze voor het ontladen van een flexibele pijpleiding met ten minste een gedeelte van een flexibele pijpleiding met een vergrote diameter uit de ringvormige opslaginrichting 30 van een schip volgens conclusie 5, omvattende de volgende stappen: het bewegen van ten minste één van de pijpspanner rupsbanden en de hiermee verbonden geleiding voor een pijpleiding naar de teruggetrokken positie; - het verbinden van het gedeelte van een flexibele pijpleiding met een vergrote diameter, gesitueerd in de opslaginrichting, met de kraan; 35. het ophijsen van het gedeelte van een flexibele pijpleiding met een vergrote diameter door de kraan, door de teruggetrokken positie van de pijpspanner, en het brengen - 15- van het gedeelte van een flexibele pijpleiding met een vergrote diameter naar de flexibele pijpleginstallatie; - het sluiten van de pijpspanner rupsbanden naar de operatieve positie; - het losmaken van het gedeelte van een flexibele pijpleiding met een vergrote 5 diameter van de kraan; - het bedienen van de pijpspanner zodanig dat de pijpleiding uit de opslaginrichting wordt getrokken.10. Method for discharging a flexible pipeline with at least a portion of a flexible pipeline with an enlarged diameter from the annular storage device 30 of a ship according to claim 5, comprising the following steps: moving at least one of the pipe tensioner tracks and the guide connected thereto for a pipeline to the retracted position; - connecting the portion of a flexible pipeline with an enlarged diameter, situated in the storage device, with the tap; 35. lifting the portion of a flexible pipeline with an enlarged diameter through the tap, through the retracted position of the pipe tensioner, and bringing the portion of a flexible pipeline with an enlarged diameter to the flexible pipeline installation; - closing the pipe tensioner tracks to the operative position; - loosening the portion of a flexible pipeline with an enlarged diameter of the tap; - operating the pipe tensioner such that the pipeline is pulled out of the storage device.
NL2009791A 2012-11-12 2012-11-12 Flexible hydrocarbon pipeline storage installation. NL2009791C2 (en)

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EP13801870.0A EP2917625B1 (en) 2012-11-12 2013-11-07 Flexible hydrocarbon pipeline storage installation
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US20150285012A1 (en) 2015-10-08

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